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Larks Head Knot

Description: The Larks Head Knot is one of the most frequently used Macrame knots in existence. The vertical variation was called the Buttonhole Stitch in the early days of Macramé. That’s because it is often used to make clothing or jewelry designs using buttons. Another name for this decorative knot is the Cow Hitch.

Most of the time, this technique is used in the mounting process; to attach one cord to another, or to a ring, dowel or purse handle. However, you can use it at any point in a pattern.

Variations: The Reverse Larks Head is described below. I've also added instructions for tying the Nestled Mount.

On a separate page, Larks Head Sennits, you will learn how to use this technique to form decorative chains. The Vertical Larks Head is also described separately. Make sure you visit those pages, so you learn how to use these knots well.

Step 1: To practice, obtain a holding cord or ring. Larks Head Knots need to be attached to something. Then cut one working cord to tie the knots.

Fold the working cord in half. Place it under the holding cord or support piece. The loop should be at the bottom and the ends at the top.

Step 2: Take both ends and bring them over the holding cord or the edge of the ring. Then feed them down and through the space near the crook of the fold.

Pull the ends to tighten the knot snugly.

Reverse Larks Head

This variation is often used when there are Double Half Hitches present, so the knots look the same. It takes advantage of the back of the Larks Head knot, rather than the front. This is an important variation, frequently seen in Macrame patterns, so be sure to practice it, too.

Place the folded working cord on top of the holding cord, ring, or dowel. Pass the ends under it, and through the space from below.

Click on the icon to see a larger image.

Nestled Mount

Here's a variation that is not very well known. It is used when different colors are required to form an alternating design.

One strand is mounted to a holding cord with a regular Larks Head Knot. The second one (blue), is mounted the same way, but surrounds the head of the first one.

Click on the icon to see a larger image.

In other words, the first knot nestles inside the second one.

To see a pattern where this technique is used to create color changes, see the Square Knot Sennits.

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